Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra

Guided Tour: Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra - A Journey Through Albania’s Rich Heritage

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

    • Brief History of Berat and Gjirokastra
    • UNESCO World Heritage Sites Status

  2. Berat

    • Overview
    • The White (Mangalem) and the Black (Gorica) Cities
      • Mangalem Quarter
        • St. Mary’s Church
        • Onufri Museum
        • Ethnographic Museum
      • Gorica Hill
        • Gorica Castle
        • St. Trinity Church
    • Things to Do and See
      • Berat Castle
      • Ogrejin Ethnographical Park
      • Bulgari Kosova Field
      • King Nikolla’s Mosque
      • Apolloni Village

  3. Gjirokastra

    • Overview
    • Historical Background
      • Ali Pasha of Tepelena
      • Ottoman and Independent Albania Era
    • Key Attractions
      • Gjirokastra Fortress
        • Armoury Museum
        • Weapons Museum
        • Polytechnic University
      • Ethnographic Museum
      • Bazaar Area
      • Xhafa Residence
      • Tumbe Sinan Pasha Mosque
    • Festivals and Events
      • Gjirokastra International Documentary and Short Film Festival (GIDFF)
      • Wedding Traditions and Folklore

  4. Tips for Tourists

    • Best Time to Visit
    • Getting Around
    • Accommodation and Food
    • Safety and Etiquette

1. Introduction

The Historic Centres of Berat and Gjirokastra, located in Albania, are two exceptional examples of an architectural character developed over centuries. Both cities have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List for their unique cultural and historical significance.

Brief History of Berat and Gjirokastra

Berat, often referred to as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” boasts an ancient history dating back over 2400 years. The city was successively governed by the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Bulgars, Normans, Venetians, and Ottomans. Gjirokastra, on the other hand, was founded in the late Middle Ages and flourished during the 17th and 18th centuries under Ali Pasha of Tepelena, a significant figure in the region’s history.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Status

In July 2008, Berat and Gjirokastra were recognized as cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites, joining other notable cities like Vienna, Istanbul, and Fez. This recognition highlights the unique architectural and historical importance of these two towns, making them a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Albania’s rich heritage.

2. Berat

Overview

Berat is divided into the White (Mangalem) and Black (Gorica) Cities, each with its own charm and attractions. The White City, situated at the foot of Mount Tomorr, features charming houses with wooden balconies and ornate stone facades. The Black City, perched on top of Gorica Hill, offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

The White (Mangalem) and the Black (Gorica) Cities

Mangalem Quarter

The White City is home to several notable attractions:

  • St. Mary’s Church: A 13th-century Orthodox church, featuring beautiful frescoes and a bell tower.
  • Onufri Museum: Named after the famous Albanian iconographer Onufri, this museum houses numerous works of art from the Post Byzantine period.
  • Ethnographic Museum: Showcasing traditional Albanian costumes, household items, and tools, this museum offers insights into the region’s cultural heritage.

Gorica Hill

The Black City is dominated by Gorica Castle, which dates back to the 4th century BC. Other notable attractions in the area include:

  • St. Trinity Church: A charming Orthodox church with beautiful frescoes and a bell tower.

Things to Do and See

  • Berat Castle: Dating back to the 3rd century, this ancient fortress offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Ogrejin Ethnographical Park: A living museum that provides insights into traditional Albanian life.
  • Bulgari Kosova Field: An open-air museum featuring the remains of a medieval Bulgarian settlement.
  • King Nikolla’s Mosque: A beautiful Ottoman mosque, now used as a cultural center.
  • Apolloni Village: A picturesque village located just outside Berat, known for its traditional architecture and stunning landscapes.

3. Gjirokastra

Overview

Gjirokastra, nestled in the heart of southern Albania, is a charming town famous for its Ottoman-style architecture. The city offers visitors a glimpse into Albanian history and culture.

Historical Background

Gjirokastra reached its peak during the 17th and 18th centuries under Ali Pasha of Tepelena, a regional leader known for his military prowess and architectural patronage. The city continued to thrive during the Ottoman and Independent Albania eras.

Key Attractions

  • Gjirokastra Fortress: A massive fortress dating back to ancient times, now home to various museums, including an armory, weapons museum, and the Polytechnic University of Gjirokastra.
  • Ethnographic Museum: Showcasing traditional Albanian architecture, household items, and costumes from different regions of the country.
  • Bazaar Area: A lively marketplace featuring local products such as hand-woven carpets, silver jewelry, and traditional foods.
  • Xhafa Residence: A well-preserved Ottoman house, now serving as a museum dedicated to the Xhafa family, one of Gjirokastra’s most prominent clans.
  • Tumbe Sinan Pasha Mosque: A beautifully preserved mosque dating back to the 16th century, named after one of Ali Pasha’s brothers.

Festivals and Events

Gjirokastra is known for hosting the Gjirokastra International Documentary and Short Film Festival (GIDFF), which takes place annually in November. Additionally, the city’s wedding traditions and folklore are still celebrated today, making it an exciting destination for those interested in local customs and traditions.

4. Tips for Tourists

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Berat and Gjirokastra is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the cities are less crowded.
  • Getting Around: Both cities are walkable, but you may want to consider renting a car if you plan on exploring the surrounding countryside.
  • Accommodation and Food: There are several accommodations options available in both cities, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Traditional Albanian cuisine can be found in many restaurants throughout the region.
  • Safety and Etiquette: Albania is generally a safe destination, but it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and common sense when traveling. Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.